As summer approaches, Croatia comes calling, and for many, there’s only one place to head for. Set right on the sparkling Adriatic Sea, the UNESCO city of Dubrovnik has attracted visitors for centuries.
In its time, it’s been ruled by the Greeks, the Byzantines, the Republic of Venice, the French and Austrian Empires, and the Republic of Ragusa, and what you’ll find here today is a mix of majestic architecture from all these eras, from its mediaeval walls to its Baroque cathedrals and churches. There’s nothing quite like taking a stroll down the Stradun, the city’s spectacular main street, paved with polished limestone slabs. Here you can marvel at landmarks such as the Pile and Ploce Gates at each end, the large and small Onofrio Fountains, and the striking bell towers which loom over the landscape.
But the city is only part of the story; the region beyond it, known as the Dubrovnik Riviera, should definitely be on your itinerary, thanks to its nature, beaches, cultural heritage, gastronomy and wine. It all falls under the domain of Dubrovnik-Neretva, Croatia’s southernmost county, and with only 127,000 residents scattered across an area of nearly 700 square miles, what you’ll get most is a blissful feeling of space, and a sense of utter relaxation. Here you’ll find small, charming coastal towns, stunning islands, well-preserved national parks, historic sites, and, of course, delicious food and drink.
Idyllic islands
So, where to begin? Start with a spot of island life on Korčula, a striking strip of land you can reach by catamaran from Dubrovnik, or ferry from Orebić in Pelješac and Split. Carpeted in dense forests of pine and oak, it offers plenty of shaded walking trails which wind through olive groves, vineyards, and villages. Its fortified mediaeval old town offers picturesque cobbled streets and crenellated walls, with some beautiful sights such as the 15th century St Mark’s Cathedral, which houses works by Tintoretto. Head to the top of its belltower for magnificent views out to sea.
Nearby are unspoiled beaches and shaded coves; make a beeline for Lumbarda, a small fisherman’s village with the best sandy beaches on the island. Pržina has year-round warm seas, while neighbouring Bilin Žal is popular with families thanks to its shallow water, ideal for paddling.
Another pretty island is Mljet, which boasts Mediterranean…
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